Angel

Guzman

Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery. ''It was absolutely the best we could have hoped for,’' said GM Jim Hendry. ''There was absolutely no damage to the rotator cuff.’' Guzman should be ready by spring training.

Guzman has struggled to recover from a partially torn labrum, but the Cubs are optimistic he’s turned the corner. ''Angel told [farm director Oneri Fleita it’s the best he’s felt by far since before the surgery,’' Cubs GM Jim Hendry said. ''He’s not taking as long to get loose again.’' If he’s ready to pitch at the start of the year, Guzman will do so at Triple-A Iowa.

Guzman could be pitching in the minor leagues by the middle of May. He had shoulder surgery last year.

Guzman experienced discomfort while pitching for Double-A West Tennessee. Dr. Andrews agreed with the findings of Cubs’ doctors. The Cubs would not reveal what the doctors’ recommendation is, although it’s presumed season-ending surgery is an option, as is rest.

He’ll probably pitch in the Arizona Fall League to get ready for 2006.

It was the season debut for the right-hander, who had been out with a a strained right forearm and inflammation in his right elbow. Guzman topped out at 94 mph in the game.

Juan Mateo was scheduled to get the start, but he pitched in relief on Thursday. Guzman has been pitching decent for Triple-A Iowa since his demotion. He could have a little value in NL-only leagues.

Guzman should eventually see time in the Cubs’ rotation, and he’ll be a candidate for value in NL-only leagues once it happens. He has a 4.04 ERA and a 77/24 K/BB ratio in 75 2/3 IP for Iowa.

Since Juan Mateo was needed in relief Thursday, Guzman is starting against the Rockies tonight. If he pitches well, it could turn into a permanent gig.

Extremely unimpressive. Guzman seemed to be making some real progress during his stint with the Cubs in June and he was coming off one of his best performances at Triple-A, but Josh Fogg was the only Rockies’ hitter he could handle tonight. NL-only leaguers will have to stay away until further notice.